Explore Machu Picchu & Cruise The Galápagos

Trip Level

Easy

Many activities are optional and involve fairly easy travel. Trips may include short hikes of two to three hours or optional walks at low elevations. Includes less demanding sea kayaking and river rafting trips with Class I-II rapids.

From $7,195

Explore two of Latin America’s crown jewels on one amazing two-week adventure!

Discover rich Andean culture and deep history in the charming, UNESCO-listed city of Cusco and experience the wonder of Machu Picchu

Journey through the Galápagos on a private yacht and see incredible wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, giant tortoises, sea lions and much, much more

Enjoy moments of magical discovery every step of the way and learn from expert naturalist guides

When it comes to visiting South America, the phrase, “too much to see, too little time” applies for most travelers. We’ve attempted to remedy that by designing an itinerary that includes two of the best of our South American adventures. First we'll visit Peru, where we'll explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, and the mystical ruins and misty peaks of Machu Picchu. Next we'll take a cruise through the enchanting Galápagos Islands on a privately chartered yacht and encounter unique species that exist nowhere else on earth. Along the way we'll be reminded that these incredible islands drew the attention of Charles Darwin when he visited here in 1835, later serving as the foundation for his theory of evolution. Throughout the trip, you'll enjoy luxurious accommodations and tours with expert guides. This is two South American bucket-list adventures in one!

Upon arrival in Cusco, you'll be greeted by a Mountain Travel Sobek representative and transferred to your hotel. Cusco was the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, and today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its ruins and vibrant beauty. We'll take a three-hour tour of the old city and Inca ruins, and later we'll meet for a welcome dinner.

Lunch/Dinner

Accomodation:Palacio del Inka-Cusco

Day 2: Explore Inca ruins in the Urubamba Valley

Near Cusco are several fascinating archeological sites from the Inca Empire, and this morning we'll take a private tour of four of them: the military ruins of Puka Pukara, the holy site of of Kenko, the ruins of Tambomachay, and the famous fortress of Sacsayhuaman.

Afterwards, we'll drive through the Urubamba to visit the village of Pisac. High on a hilltop overlooking the village, we'll explore the ruins of the largest fortress-city complex of the Incas and see some of the finest Inca stonework in existence. The lower slopes of the surrounding mountains feature impressive agricultural terraces and irrigation systems dating from Inca times. We'll spend tonight in Urubamba, and dinner is on your own.

Breakfast/Lunch

Accomodation:Sol y Luna

Day 3: Take the train to Machu Picchu

After breakfast, we'll continue exploring the valley, then board a train for the scenic, two-hour trip through the Urubamba Valley. From the Machu Picchu train station at Aguas Calientes, a short bus ride on steep, winding switchback roads will take you up to the “Lost City of the Incas.”

Nestled between striking peaks high above the Urubamba Valley, Machu Picchu exists as an incomparably well-reconstructed ruin of staircases, terraced hillsides, altars, temples, fountains, and vistas. We'll take a short orientation tour of the spectacular ruins, after which you can explore with your guide. We'll then return to Aguas Calientes for the evening, where we will rest up for a more in-depth tour tomorrow.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accomodation:Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu and return to Cusco

Today, we'll get an early start so we can experience the morning light over Machu Picchu and explore the ruins in depth before the train arrives with day visitors. We’ll have a thorough walking tour of Machu Picchu, visiting the various main structures and learning about their importance in the lives of the Incas, including a hike to Machu Picchu Mountain. If you wish, you can hike up to Intipunku (the “Gate of the Sun”), or climb the sheer Inca staircase of Huayna Picchu, a quite challenging and steep hike that takes about two hours but affords exhilarating views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountain ranges.

We'll take the bus back around 1pm so we can catch the train back to Cusco, where you're free to relax and enjoy dinner on your own.

Breakfast/Lunch

Accomodation:Palacio del Inka-Cusco

Day 5: Fly to Guayaquil, Ecuador

After breakfast at the hotel, we'll transfer to the Cusco airport for our flight to Lima, where we'll connect with an international flight to Ecuador. A Mountain Travel Sobek representative will meet you outside the customs and immigration area at the airport and escort you to your hotel in Guayaquil.

Breakfast

Accomodation:Hilton Colon

Day 6: Begin your Galápagos adventure

After an early breakfast at the hotel, we'll fly from Guayaquil to the island of Baltra, marking our official arrival in the Galápagos Islands (cost of flight not included). Here, we'll board our boat and begin a delightful week of exploration and relaxation.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accomodation:The Reina Silvia

Days 7-12: Explore the “Enchanted Islands"

While every Galápagos cruise itinerary is different, each day contains magical moments of discovery, with a naturalist guide by your side to show you all of the wonders of each of the islands.

You'll walk on soft, powdery sands, snorkel with giant sea turtles, explore tide pools, and hike over volcanic landscapes. You'll also be introduced to unique plants and animal species that can't be found anywhere else. The giant sea turtles are the most famous residents of the Galápagos, but wildlife viewing abounds, whether it's flightless cormorants, albatross colonies, marine iguanas, or the famous blue-footed boobies.

The islands you'll visit over these six days include Plazas, North Seymour, Genovesa, Santiago, Bartolomé, Fernandina, Isabela, Santa Cruz, Española, and Floreana. No matter your itinerary, you'll leave with a thorough appreciation and understanding of the Galápagos' unique beauty and biodiversity.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accomodation:The Reina Silvia

Day 13: Return to Guayaquil

After returning to port, we'll transfer to the airport and fly to Guayaquil, arriving in the late afternoon. The evening is free to take in the last of Guayaquil’s sites or to pick up some last-minute souvenirs before heading home. Or, you could choose to fly home on a late red-eye flight if you wish.

Breakfast

Accomodation:Hilton Colon

Day 14: Fly home

For your final day, you'll transfer to the airport for your homeward-bound flight, or you can join us for one of our extensions.

A luxury boutique hotel just steps from the train, but a secluded natural paradise. Located in the small town of Aguas Calientes on the banks of the Urubamba River, the Pueblo Hotel was rated by Travel + Leisure readers as a top 500 hotel of the world in 2006. Rustic elegance distinguishes the private bungalows, each with its own fireplace, and the lush gardens are home to orchids, exotic birds and other flora and fauna.

Palacio del Inka-Cusco — Cusco

Facing the Sun Temple "Koricancha," this romantic, personalized hotel is a traveler's favorite, reaching 11th place on Condé Nast Traveler's list of top South American hotels. Rooms furnished in a classic, traditional style ensure the hotel maintains its serene character despite its central location.

Sol y Luna — Sacred Valley

The Reina Silvia

At 90 feet long, the Reina Silvia was recently renovated and redesigned to create a pleasant atmosphere for groups of 12-16 guests. The yacht is fully air-conditioned and all cabins have en suite bathrooms with shower, vanity and lavatory. The yacht features up-to-date security, navigational and communications equipment. There is a spacious open-air lounge on the top deck, a swimming platform, kayaks, inflatable tenders, and snorkeling equipment.

Explore two of Latin America’s crown jewels on one amazing two-week adventure!

Discover rich Andean culture and deep history in the charming, UNESCO-listed city of Cusco and experience the wonder of Machu Picchu

Journey through the Galápagos on a private yacht and see incredible wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, giant tortoises, sea lions and much, much more

Enjoy moments of magical discovery every step of the way and learn from expert naturalist guides

When it comes to visiting South America, the phrase, “too much to see, too little time” applies for most travelers. We’ve attempted to remedy that by designing an itinerary that includes two of the best of our South American adventures. First we'll visit Peru, where we'll explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, and the mystical ruins and misty peaks of Machu Picchu. Next we'll take a cruise through the enchanting Galápagos Islands on a privately chartered yacht and encounter unique species that exist nowhere else on earth. Along the way we'll be reminded that these incredible islands drew the attention of Charles Darwin when he visited here in 1835, later serving as the foundation for his theory of evolution. Throughout the trip, you'll enjoy luxurious accommodations and tours with expert guides. This is two South American bucket-list adventures in one!

Upon arrival in Cusco, you'll be greeted by a Mountain Travel Sobek representative and transferred to your hotel. Cusco was the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, and today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its ruins and vibrant beauty. We'll take a three-hour tour of the old city and Inca ruins, and later we'll meet for a welcome dinner.

Lunch/Dinner

Accomodation:Palacio del Inka-Cusco

Day 2: Explore Inca ruins in the Urubamba Valley

Near Cusco are several fascinating archeological sites from the Inca Empire, and this morning we'll take a private tour of four of them: the military ruins of Puka Pukara, the holy site of of Kenko, the ruins of Tambomachay, and the famous fortress of Sacsayhuaman.

Afterwards, we'll drive through the Urubamba to visit the village of Pisac. High on a hilltop overlooking the village, we'll explore the ruins of the largest fortress-city complex of the Incas and see some of the finest Inca stonework in existence. The lower slopes of the surrounding mountains feature impressive agricultural terraces and irrigation systems dating from Inca times. We'll spend tonight in Urubamba, and dinner is on your own.

Breakfast/Lunch

Accomodation:Sol y Luna

Day 3: Take the train to Machu Picchu

After breakfast, we'll continue exploring the valley, then board a train for the scenic, two-hour trip through the Urubamba Valley. From the Machu Picchu train station at Aguas Calientes, a short bus ride on steep, winding switchback roads will take you up to the “Lost City of the Incas.”

Nestled between striking peaks high above the Urubamba Valley, Machu Picchu exists as an incomparably well-reconstructed ruin of staircases, terraced hillsides, altars, temples, fountains, and vistas. We'll take a short orientation tour of the spectacular ruins, after which you can explore with your guide. We'll then return to Aguas Calientes for the evening, where we will rest up for a more in-depth tour tomorrow.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accomodation:Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu and return to Cusco

Today, we'll get an early start so we can experience the morning light over Machu Picchu and explore the ruins in depth before the train arrives with day visitors. We’ll have a thorough walking tour of Machu Picchu, visiting the various main structures and learning about their importance in the lives of the Incas, including a hike to Machu Picchu Mountain. If you wish, you can hike up to Intipunku (the “Gate of the Sun”), or climb the sheer Inca staircase of Huayna Picchu, a quite challenging and steep hike that takes about two hours but affords exhilarating views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountain ranges.

We'll take the bus back around 1pm so we can catch the train back to Cusco, where you're free to relax and enjoy dinner on your own.

Breakfast/Lunch

Accomodation:Palacio del Inka-Cusco

Day 5: Fly to Guayaquil, Ecuador

After breakfast at the hotel, we'll transfer to the Cusco airport for our flight to Lima, where we'll connect with an international flight to Ecuador. A Mountain Travel Sobek representative will meet you outside the customs and immigration area at the airport and escort you to your hotel in Guayaquil.

Breakfast

Accomodation:Hilton Colon

Day 6: Begin your Galápagos adventure

After an early breakfast at the hotel, we'll fly from Guayaquil to the island of Baltra, marking our official arrival in the Galápagos Islands (cost of flight not included). Here, we'll board our boat and begin a delightful week of exploration and relaxation.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accomodation:The Reina Silvia

Days 7-12: Explore the “Enchanted Islands"

While every Galápagos cruise itinerary is different, each day contains magical moments of discovery, with a naturalist guide by your side to show you all of the wonders of each of the islands.

You'll walk on soft, powdery sands, snorkel with giant sea turtles, explore tide pools, and hike over volcanic landscapes. You'll also be introduced to unique plants and animal species that can't be found anywhere else. The giant sea turtles are the most famous residents of the Galápagos, but wildlife viewing abounds, whether it's flightless cormorants, albatross colonies, marine iguanas, or the famous blue-footed boobies.

The islands you'll visit over these six days include Plazas, North Seymour, Genovesa, Santiago, Bartolomé, Fernandina, Isabela, Santa Cruz, Española, and Floreana. No matter your itinerary, you'll leave with a thorough appreciation and understanding of the Galápagos' unique beauty and biodiversity.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accomodation:The Reina Silvia

Day 13: Return to Guayaquil

After returning to port, we'll transfer to the airport and fly to Guayaquil, arriving in the late afternoon. The evening is free to take in the last of Guayaquil’s sites or to pick up some last-minute souvenirs before heading home. Or, you could choose to fly home on a late red-eye flight if you wish.

Breakfast

Accomodation:Hilton Colon

Day 14: Fly home

For your final day, you'll transfer to the airport for your homeward-bound flight, or you can join us for one of our extensions.

A luxury boutique hotel just steps from the train, but a secluded natural paradise. Located in the small town of Aguas Calientes on the banks of the Urubamba River, the Pueblo Hotel was rated by Travel + Leisure readers as a top 500 hotel of the world in 2006. Rustic elegance distinguishes the private bungalows, each with its own fireplace, and the lush gardens are home to orchids, exotic birds and other flora and fauna.

Palacio del Inka-Cusco — Cusco

Facing the Sun Temple "Koricancha," this romantic, personalized hotel is a traveler's favorite, reaching 11th place on Condé Nast Traveler's list of top South American hotels. Rooms furnished in a classic, traditional style ensure the hotel maintains its serene character despite its central location.

Sol y Luna — Sacred Valley

The Reina Silvia

At 90 feet long, the Reina Silvia was recently renovated and redesigned to create a pleasant atmosphere for groups of 12-16 guests. The yacht is fully air-conditioned and all cabins have en suite bathrooms with shower, vanity and lavatory. The yacht features up-to-date security, navigational and communications equipment. There is a spacious open-air lounge on the top deck, a swimming platform, kayaks, inflatable tenders, and snorkeling equipment.

Flight Lima-Cusco-Guayaquil not included and estimated at $600.
$545 Internal airfare for Guayaquil to Galapagos roundtrip – subject to change
$100 Galapagos National Park fee
$20 Transit Control Card

Single Supplement: call for details

Children 10 and up are welcome.

NOTE: For detailed itineraries on specific departure dates including day-by-day details, please call us at 1-888-831-7526 or email us at info@mtsobek.com

Activity Ratings

Easy

Many activities are optional and involve fairly easy travel. Trips may include short hikes of two to three hours or optional walks at low elevations. Includes less demanding sea kayaking and river rafting trips with Class I-II rapids.

Moderate

More active trips involving hiking over moderate terrain, usually - but not always - with vehicle support and at elevations less than 10,000 feet, or trips with long hiking days, multiple sea kayaking days, wilderness camping, or other invigorating activity. On many trips, you can elect to skip a day's activity, depending on logistics. Includes more demanding sea kayaking trips and river rafting trips with Class III rapids.

Strenuous

Hiking and trekking over steeper or more rugged terrain or where elevations may exceed 10,000 feet - often several days in a row. Includes more demanding sea kayaking trips (4-5 hours paddling a day) and river rafting trips with Class IV-V rapids.